Inaugurated on 22 April, The GEN WE Project 2024 aligns with the United Nations Act Now initiative, encouraging individuals to take action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Utilising creatively repurposed materials, the student-led exhibition breathed new life into discarded objects, thus fostering new connections and promoting sustainability. "Participating in the project as part of my digital marketing course at the Suzhou campus was an invaluable experience. It enabled me to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting by creating a comprehensive marketing campaign focused on sustainability in fashion. Additionally, I interacted with companies and learned to engage diverse audiences," explains Zoé David, a student in the Master in Management (PGE) and MSc International Marketing & Business Development (MSc IMBD) programmes.
Practical learning
The exhibition showcased the work of MSc IMBD students, under the guidance of Wu Yi, an adjunct professor of digital marketing at SKEMA, the founder of TEME, and a curator of the exhibition. "These students integrated sustainable living concepts into the circular economy, presenting their innovative projects at the Suzhou Silk Museum. This showcase not only highlights the students' achievements but also aims to inspire a broader audience to adopt sustainable practices. Their works will also be exhibited at future TGWP exhibitions in Europe," he explains, adding, "I thank all the SKEMA professors and students who co-created The GEN WE Project with love and wisdom. This project transforms discarded materials and efforts into new creations, emphasising collaboration over ownership, and finding order through partnership."
Faculty share their insights
In the afternoon, a knowledge-sharing event on fashion, silk textiles, and sustainable development took place. Heidi Berg, an adjunct professor at SKEMA, vice chairman of the China-Norway Business Association, director of ESG and sustainability at DI Asia Base, and GRI-certified sustainability expert, shared with the guests opportunities for engagement in the field of sustainability. She spoke about the impact of sustainability work on society, the development process of ESG, and her vision for a sustainable lifestyle.
Following Heidi, Dominique Simard, an adjunct professor at SKEMA, executive director of the Shenzhen Garment Industry Association, founder and CEO of Rethink Fashion, and chief sustainability officer at ELLSSAY Group, shared his insights on the sustainability challenges within the fashion industry.